2013 World Cup Finals venues confirmed

Rugby League World Cup 2013 announced today that the semi-finals of the tournament will be a double-header at Wembley Stadium and that the final will take place on Saturday November 30 at Old Trafford, Manchester.

The double header is set to be one of the biggest days in the 2013 sporting calendar as the best four teams in the world battle it out for a place in the Rugby League World Cup Final.

The announcement was made today in Manchester as delegates from all 14 teams competing at RLWC2013 and representatives of the Rugby League International Federation gathered to make their first preparations for the tournament.

Co-hosts Wales will get the tournament under way on Saturday, October 26 against qualifiers Italy, followed by England's group A clash with favourites Australia, while the final will be on Saturday, November 30 at Old Trafford, which was also the venue for the last final to be held in England in 2000.

Wembley hosted a double header during the 2011 Four Nations Series and is a regular venue for the Challenge Cup final.

"It's a stunning venue and has hosted some famous Rugby League World Cup games in the past," said RLWC 2013 General Manager Sally Bolton.

"Having two matches back to back will make for a wonderful day of Rugby League with the four top teams going hammer and tongs for a place in the Rugby League World Cup final.